Old Margaret; And Other Stories (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1890. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... You are bound in every way to ruin this man. An unsuccessful insurrection would save him." "Sister Priscilla," said Martina, "you are entirely wrong. I know what I am talking about; you do not. An unsuccessful insurrection would ruin him. I can make him or mar him. I have accidentally supreme power in the State just now, and I could do as I choose. But if you will come with me to all those who have vowed to ruin Van Dysart and the others, we will hear what they say. I wish to be clear with you; I desire your good opinion, though you are a good woman, and I am not a very good woman. I am forced to this ruin of the man who wrought my ruin. So are others--yourself, Spada, Van Kenning, the Van Eycks, Father Peter, the people--some of them at least--Margaret, and the Duke of Burgundy. Let us go and pick up Father Peter, and let we three go round to all of them in turn, and see what they wish us to do." "Father Peter and I are sound on the subject," said Sister Priscilla, biting her nails. "I don't much like to be seen with you. It does no good to us. But we will come to Father Peter and get him. After that I will do what you wish." "You promise," said Martina. "I promise," said Sister Priscilla. Father Peter happened to have been out all night with a case of quotidian ague, and as the Jesuits had not then discovered that bark which we debased mortals call chinchona or quinine, he had had to sit up all night until his patient's shivering fit had passed. Consequently he was extremely cross at being pulled out of his bed, on a matter which he distinctly avowed was none of his. His toilette was so very simple, like that of monks in general--judging from those we saw at Brussels the other day among the surrendered French officers, and also remembering our Rabelais' descri...